What is Tree Pollarding?
Tree pollarding is a pruning method where it involves cutting a tree’s top branches back to a specific spot, typically above the lowest branches. This encourages the tree to produce a dense canopy of shoots, which can be controlled and maintained over time.
This method is often used for trees in confined spaces like along roadsides, in parks, or in residential gardens. For species like willows, oaks and other trees that react favorably to this treatment, it is very helpful.
How Does Tree Pollarding Benefit Trees?
Pollarding, when done correctly, can offer several advantages for trees, including:
Improved Health and Growth
Regular pollarding can promote new, vigorous growth by stimulating the development of multiple new shoots, which are more resilient to disease and pests.
Control of Size and Shape
In urban environments, trees must be maintained within a specific size range. This will prevent interference with buildings, power lines, or pavements. Pollarding helps regulate the tree’s size and shape, preventing overgrowth and obstruction of structures.
Prevention of Damage
Large, heavy branches can pose a risk of breakage during storms or strong winds. You can reduce the weight of the canopy and lower the risk of branch failure by pollarding. This helps prevent potential danger to people and property.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal
Some people opt for tree pollarding for aesthetic reasons. Pollarded trees have a distinctive, tidy appearance with a neatly rounded crown of new growth, enhancing the appearance of a landscape area.
Is Pollarding Good for Trees in the Long Term?
While pollarding has numerous benefits, it must be done correctly and at the right time to avoid potential risks. Doing pollarding correctly and at the right period is one of the most important ways. This is to guarantee that it continues to benefit trees. If done too severely or too frequently, it can stress the tree and significantly reduce its lifespan.
Young, healthy trees that have been properly maintained throughout time are the best choices for pollarding. For older trees, pollarding can sometimes lead to poor health, as the tree may struggle to sustain healthy regrowth. Always consult an expert before deciding to pollard an older or weakened tree.
The Risks of Poor Pollarding Practices
Improper pollarding can cause several issues. One of the primary risks is tree disease, as excessive cutting may expose too much interior wood, making the tree susceptible to decay or fungal infections.
Another risk is the weakening of the tree’s structural integrity. If too many branches are removed, the tree may become unstable. Overly frequent pollarding can further reduce the tree’s resilience, leaving it vulnerable to damage from strong winds or heavy rain.
How Often Should Trees Be Pollarded?
The frequency of pollarding depends on the tree species and the desired results. Trees usually get pollarded every two to three years to promote new development while maintaining a manageable size. Some species, like willows, may require more frequent pollarding. While others, like oaks which may only need it every few years.
It’s essential to avoid over-pollarding. While regular care helps the tree remain healthy and thrive, excessive pruning can cause harm.
What Are the Alternatives to Tree Pollarding?
Although it’s not the only method, tree pollarding may be a useful strategy for preserving the beauty and health of trees. Add other tree care procedures to control tree growth and enhance health, such as crown thinning, crown lifting, and selective pruning.
For instance, crown thinning entails cutting certain branches to improve the tree’s general health by letting more light and air into the interior. Crown lifting, which is frequently helpful for landscaping. It eliminates lower branches to provide more room below the tree. Each of these alternatives has its own benefits. Consulting a professional arborist will ensure the most suitable approach is applied.
Is Pollarding Right for Your Trees?
Is pollarding good for trees in your garden or landscape? The answer depends on the tree species, location, and the desired outcomes. Pollarding can be an excellent method to control their size and encourages new growth effectively if you have trees that grow rapidly or are in confined spaces.
However, it’s important to seek the advice of a professional tree surgeon to ensure the pollarding is done correctly. Experts like those at Tree Squadron can assess the health of your trees, recommend the best pollarding schedule, and perform the procedure safely and effectively.
